Lot 726: Richard Wagner

Lot 726: Desirable AMQS on an off-white 6.75 x 7.75 sheet, signed at the conclusion in crisp ink in German (translated), "See you soon. Exhausted and sleepless, Richard Wagner," and dated at Vienna, December 27, 1862. Wagner pens the music and lyrics to the celebrated opening line of 'Wotan's Farewell,' the finale of the third act of the Valkyrie [with a minor change to first word] in full (translated): "Those bright shining eyes that often I caressed with smiles." Moderate to heavy overall toning, otherwise fine condition. Wagner was in Vienna at the time conducting excerpts from the Ring of the Nibelung, of which the Valkyrie is the second opera. This beautiful line—written for a bass-baritone—is sung by the character of Wotan, father of the Gods, as he holds the face of his favorite daughter Brunnhilde. While any AMQS from the German master is quite rare and always sought-after, quotes from 'Wotan's Farewell' are virtually unobtainable.
RR Auction's Fine Autographs and Artifacts Auction 466
Wednesday, 9th December 2015
Estimate: $12000-15000